Take Me To The Moon
First City Artists, 2025
9/10
The Pittsburgh outfit Bonnie & The Mere Mortals make their own kind of country rock, where nods to Dolly Parton, David Bowie, and The Cure are appreciated across these 11 songs.
The very unique mood of “Wildfires” starts with Andrew Roulston’s frisky drumming and Bonnie’s expressive voice that somehow brings country and shoegaze together, and “Evaline” follows with a soft ambience thanks to the heartfelt singing that builds into a hazy delivery.
“It’s All Fine” arrives in the middle and uses buzzing synth and plenty of cautiousness via the emotive duet, while “Fade Into You” offers a really fun take on the Mazzy Star hit that enlists Matt Elias’ meticulous guitar.
Closer to the end, the frisky energy of “Kindred Spirits” gets a bit busy in a rhythmic fashion that makes great use of Jill Storm’s bass, and “Dreams” exits with another cover, and this time it’s a warm and adventurous spin on The Cranberries’ ‘92 single.
A very distinct sophomore studio album that balances Americana, goth, ‘90s rock and folk moments, Bonnie and her band use both digital and analog ideas that will appeal to punks. blue collar populations and cowboys.
Travels well with: Lila Blue- Sweet Pea; Zack Keim- Battery Lane